Tahini Pasta with Tomatoes (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1/4 cup olive oil, extra virgin.
02 - 2 pints fresh cherry tomatoes.
03 - 5 whole garlic cloves, lightly crushed.
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons za'atar seasoning.
05 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt.
06 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
07 - 1 pound spaghetti.
08 - 1/3 cup tahini paste.
09 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
10 - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated.
11 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped.
12 - 2 teaspoons capers, drained (optional).

# Instructions:

01 - Warm olive oil in a big skillet on medium heat. Drop in tomatoes and crushed garlic, cooking until tomatoes burst and get soft, about 8-10 minutes. Season with za'atar, half the salt, and pepper.
02 - Cook spaghetti in plenty of salted water until tender but firm. Save a cup of the cooking water before draining.
03 - Mix tahini, lemon juice, most of the Parmesan, and remaining salt and pepper in a bowl. Slowly add the hot pasta water, stirring until smooth.
04 - Toss hot pasta with tomatoes and tahini sauce until well coated. Mix in basil and capers. Top with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

# Notes:

01 - Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days.
02 - Add a splash of water when reheating to restore creaminess.